Toddler Craft Safety Guide

Your complete guide to safe crafting with little ones. Safety first means more fun for everyone!

🌟 The Golden Rules 🌟

Always Supervise

Never leave a toddler alone during crafts. Even "safe" materials need watching.

Non-Toxic Only

Every material should be labeled non-toxic. When in doubt, leave it out!

Size Matters

If it fits through a toilet paper roll, it's too small for toddlers.

Safety Rules by Age

1-2 Years

  • All materials must be taste-safe (edible or non-toxic)
  • No small parts - everything larger than a toilet paper roll
  • Constant adult supervision required - never leave alone
  • Avoid paper that can be torn and swallowed
  • Skip glitter, beads, and buttons entirely

2-3 Years

  • Non-toxic materials only - they still mouth things
  • Large pieces only - bigger than a golf ball
  • Constant supervision still required
  • Child-safe glue sticks only (no liquid glue)
  • Large pompoms and materials only

3-4 Years

  • Safety scissors with blunt tips only
  • Supervision required for all activities
  • Non-toxic paints and materials
  • Large beads (2+ inches) for threading
  • No sharp tools or hot glue

Material Safety Guide

Safe to Use

  • Washable finger paints

    Look for 'non-toxic' label

  • Homemade playdough

    Salt, flour, water, food coloring

  • Large pompoms (2+ inches)

    Too big to swallow

  • Paper plates

    Great for masks and crafts

  • Cotton balls

    Soft and safe for textures

  • Cardboard boxes

    Remove staples first

  • Fabric scraps

    Large pieces only

  • Wooden craft sticks

    Sand any rough edges

Avoid These

  • Glitter

    Choking hazard, eye irritant

  • Small beads

    Major choking risk

  • Buttons

    Choking hazard

  • Googly eyes

    Small parts hazard

  • Hot glue

    Burn risk

  • Sharp scissors

    Cutting injury risk

  • Pipe cleaners with wire ends

    Poking hazard

  • Small sequins

    Choking and eye risk

Emergency Quick Guide

Accidents happen. Here's what to do if something goes wrong.

Child swallows something

Stay calm. If breathing normally, call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222 US). If choking, perform age-appropriate first aid.

Paint or glue in eyes

Rinse with clean water for 15-20 minutes. If irritation continues, seek medical attention.

Allergic reaction

Stop activity immediately. For mild reactions, wash area. For severe reactions (difficulty breathing), call 911.

Important Numbers

Poison Control (US)

1-800-222-1222

Emergency

911